On October 7, 2024, the ongoing conflict between Hezbollah and Israel escalated dramatically, as Hezbollah launched rockets towards Israel’s northern region, including the third-largest city, Haifa. The attack, marking the first anniversary of the devastating 2023 Gaza war, resulted in injuries and extensive property damage in several areas, including Haifa and Tiberias. The rockets, identified as “Fadi 1” missiles, were reportedly aimed at military installations, but civilian areas were also affected.
Hezbollah Targets Israeli Military Bases
Hezbollah, backed by Iran and allied with Hamas, claimed responsibility for the strikes. According to Hezbollah, their primary target was a military base south of Haifa, as part of their coordinated assault in response to the ongoing Israeli operations in Gaza. Israeli media reported multiple strikes in both Haifa and Tiberias, injuring at least ten individuals.
Israeli Retaliation and Airstrikes
Israel swiftly retaliated, launching airstrikes against Hezbollah positions in Beirut and southern Lebanon. The Israeli military reported hitting several critical targets, including intelligence headquarters, weapons storage facilities, and command centers. Secondary explosions were observed, indicating that the strikes successfully destroyed hidden weapon caches. The Israeli government accused Hezbollah of using civilian areas to hide military assets, thus putting residents in danger.
Fears of a Widening Conflict
The conflict’s escalation comes amid heightened tensions in the region, with Israel marking the anniversary of the 2023 Hamas attack that killed over 1,200 people. Israeli forces remain on high alert, as protests and memorials across Jerusalem commemorate the victims of last year’s violence. Meanwhile, Hezbollah’s actions, along with those of Hamas, have prompted fears of a broader conflict involving Iran and the United States, potentially destabilizing the entire Middle East.
The Role of Iran and the “Axis of Resistance”
Hezbollah’s recent attacks are part of the broader Iranian strategy, often referred to as the “Axis of Resistance,” which includes Hezbollah, Hamas, and other militias allied with Tehran. Iranian involvement has been apparent, especially following the assassination of key leaders, including Hezbollah’s Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah and Quds Force commander Esmail Qaani, by Israeli forces.
As Israeli strikes continue to target Hezbollah strongholds, particularly in Beirut’s southern suburbs, the focus of the war seems to be shifting toward northern Lebanon. The conflict has caused widespread displacement in Lebanon, with over a million residents fleeing the southern region.
The international community watches closely as the situation unfolds, concerned that this volatile situation could spiral into a larger regional war involving major powers.
